When working with Aboriginal people it is useful to consider the language you use in written and verbal communications. This is consistent with your approach becoming a welcoming and inclusive sport organisation – language should always be respectful, positive and designed with consideration of your participant’s needs.
Some things you can do to ensure you communicate effectively with Aboriginal people include:
- Ask: if you are unsure about what is appropriate communication to use, speak to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are involved in your organisation as leaders, volunteers or players and listen to their suggestions.
- Consult: Identify local leaders and community groups, such as Aboriginal Co-operatives, to partner with because they can help you identify the most appropriate forms of communication for the local community.
- Consider your method: for example, if you are working with a remote community, consider which method of communication will be the most effective, such as face to face or communication through community elders and leaders.
- Be respectful: be careful not to make broad assumptions or use insensitive or discriminatory language. Remember, if in doubt, ask!
Cricket Australia’s Guide to Diversity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders includes some useful tips about appropriate forms of written and verbal communication. Click here to download the resource.
NSW Health have a resource you can access – Communicating positively: a guide to appropriate Aboriginal terminology.
If you need to arrange an interpreter to assist with communication, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection has a translation service.